Systems and methods for simultaneously controlling cinema seats
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Solution Overview
Problem
Electrically powered reclining theater seats complicate cleaning processes in commercial theaters, as each seat must be individually controlled, consuming valuable time before showtimes and hindering efficient cleaning operations.
Innovation Solution
A wireless remote control system using radio frequency (RF) communication to simultaneously control multiple theater seats, allowing them to be reclined for cleaning and returned to an upright position, featuring a user interface and transmitter that communicates with receiver and motor control units attached to each seat.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If electrically powered reclining theater seats are installed to increase comfort, then passenger comfort is improved, but cleaning time and operational complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges control of multiple individual seat motors into a single centralized control system. The controller can simultaneously send commands to multiple seat motors to adjust seat positions, combining what were previously separate control operations into one unified action. This resolves the contradiction by maintaining individual seat adjustability for comfort while enabling batch operations to reduce cleaning time.
Solution Approach 2:
The system allows seats to be pre-positioned to upright closed positions before cleaning operations begin. By using the centralized controller to simultaneously return all seats to their initial upright positions in advance of the cleaning window, the system prepares the theater for efficient cleaning, resolving the time loss issue while preserving individual seat control capabilities.
2Adaptability or versatility
If individual seat control systems are used for each reclining seat, then seat functionality is improved, but device complexity and control difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
The controller is designed with multi-functionality, serving both as an individual seat control interface and as a centralized batch control system. It can control seats individually or collectively, and can set seats to specific positions or return them to home positions. This universal controller reduces device complexity by consolidating multiple control functions into a single unit while maintaining full seat functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The controller acts as an intermediary between the user and the multiple seat motors. Instead of requiring direct individual control of each motor, the controller mediates by receiving user commands and translating them into coordinated actions across multiple seats. This intermediary layer simplifies the control interface while preserving individual seat adaptability.
3Measurement precision
If seats are controlled individually during cleaning operations, then precise seat positioning is maintained, but cleaning efficiency and productivity decrease
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements periodic batch operations where seats are simultaneously positioned to upright closed positions at specific intervals (e.g., between showtimes). This periodic centralized positioning maintains precise seat positioning when needed while dramatically improving cleaning efficiency by processing all seats in batches rather than individually during the limited cleaning window.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enables rapid and efficient cleaning by allowing all seats to be controlled simultaneously, saving time and labor during the limited window between shows, ensuring seats are in the correct position for the next audience.
Implementation Method 1
A wireless remote control system using radio frequency (RF) communication to simultaneously control multiple theater seats
Data Source
AI summary
This invention relates to theater seating, and more particularly to simultaneously controlling a plurality of seats in a theater comprising a user interface and transmitter that can be used to control various elements of the seat, and a receiver and motor control unit attached to each theater seat. In some embodiments, a signal transmitter operated by an individual at a theater may simultaneously control the various elements of any group of seats.